Prepare the Crust: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.

In a medium bowl, combine the flour, powdered sugar, butter, and salt. Mix until the dough comes together.

Press the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Bake for 15-18 minutes or until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool slightly.

Prepare the Lemon Cream Cheese Filling: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar together until smooth and creamy.

Add the eggs, lemon zest, lemon juice, flour, salt, and vanilla extract. Mix until fully combined.

Pour the lemon cream cheese filling over the slightly cooled crust.

Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the filling is set and lightly golden around the edges. Let cool completely in the baking dish.

Once cooled, refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the bars to firm up.

Before serving, dust with powdered sugar if desired.

Slice into squares and serve!